Director CIPSET Engagement and Transformation

About the role

The Director of CIPSET Engagement and Transformation will provide strategic, intellectual, and operational leadership for the Centre, positioning it as a leading interdisciplinary hub for research, public engagement, and advocacy aligned with the University’s Vision 2030.

Key responsibilities

• Set strategic direction for research, engagement and advocacy programmes.
• Design and implement a coherent work programme that aligns with institutional priorities and societal needs.
• Advance interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary scholarship.
• Build and sustain strategic partnerships at local, national and international levels.
• Lead flagship and signature projects that drive transformation and social justice.
• Secure external funding and drive fundraising initiatives.
• Oversee governance, financial, human‑resource and operational management of the Centre.
• Monitor, evaluate and report on programme impact using appropriate frameworks.
• Promote the Centre’s visibility and public profile.

Required profile

• Doctoral degree in a relevant field with an established research and publication record.
• 8‑10 years of experience in higher education or a related sector.
• Minimum of 5 years in senior management or leadership roles.
• Demonstrated experience in programme development, stakeholder engagement and institutional leadership.
• Strong understanding of critical theory, social justice and engagement paradigms.

Required skills

• Intellectual leadership in a relevant scholarly field.
• Strategic thinking and change‑management expertise.
• Policy development and implementation experience.
• Fundraising and project‑management capability.
• Ability to navigate complex, ambiguous stakeholder environments.

What we offer

• Opportunity to shape a nationally recognised centre of excellence.
• Support for research, collaboration and professional development.
• Engagement with diverse communities and impact‑driven projects.